Our generation is blessed with the independence that our forefathers fought for with their lives. What we now enjoy is the fruit of the blood and lives that were offered at the altar of our freedom and democracy. After centuries of slavery under abusive colonial masters, our brave countrymen fought long battles that won us back our lost freedom. Armed with inferior weapons, our heroes fought with courage against the artillery of our foreign oppressors. They could have opted the convenient road to self-preservation and lived longer under the rule of their foreign masters. But our forebears decided to fight a justified war that will win freedom for the future generations to enjoy. Ours was that future generation that now reaps the benefits of their hard won battles.

As we mark this 126th commemoration of that momentous victory for our freedom and independence, it is but apt to look back at the heroic act our heroes took. Their unselfish concern for our generation led to the attainment of our independence from our oppressors. We were able to establish our own government and fly our flag independently. Our colonizers placed us under an authoritarian regime that considered us no more than slaves under the Spanish crown. After the Spanish rule, we still have to be ruled by American and Japanese invaders before we obtained liberation by a victory in a war whose credit was grabbed by the Americans, obliterating as it did, the win of our Filipino soldiers.

We could take the sacrifice of our forefathers as their decisive move to free us from the burden of oppression and slavery. They risked their lives fighting a battle against well armed foreign invaders, so that we could enjoy a life of freedom and liberty. We got an inheritance that was the offshoot of their struggles and sacrifices to see our nation and people free. We got our independence in the battle seven years more than a century ago. We have turned undeserving of that supreme sacrifice but we got our share of the freedom and liberty we inherited no matter what. Taking a look at our present setup, we seem to have lost our worthiness to the cause our heroes fought for.

Our country may have been granted independence during that historical rites more than a century ago but we seem to have lost its essence over the years. After that raising of our country’s flag as a sign of our independence during that historic event on June 12, 1898, it looks like we have bungled the great benefits of that feat. Our political and economic landscape had been bastardized by foreign intervention. We have been held captive by our foreign creditors to the point that we no longer have the right to set the course of our destiny. We owe so much and we have to pay at all costs even if it means trampling upon our constitution and our sovereignty.

On another front, the independence that we have may have pushed us too far in the exercise and enjoyment of our freedom. We are a people that are prone to abusing the freedom and liberty that we have. Our democratic setup had been chaotic in many instances because of our tendency to play beyond the limits of our freedom. By and large, people with vested interests and hidden agenda are toying with our freedom to do the things as they will without regard to its consequences to our democratic institutions that ensures the protection of our freedom and . . . independence?
comments alellema@yahoo.com

THOSE two parables Christ told his disciples that compared the Kingdom of God to some seed that when planted on earth would just grow, become big and bear fruit (cfr. Mk 4,26-34) highlight the truth of our faith that God always provides for our needs but we also have to do our part.

And yet, if I may, we can ask the question—that if God is that compassionate and generous, then why is there so much suffering, poverty and misery around? It would even look like God is completely indifferent to this sad condition worldwide. It would look like many people are left to rot in their miserable condition.

The answer, of course, is that, yes, God is always compassionate. He cannot tolerate seeing people suffer. He will always provide for all our needs. He even went to the extent of becoming man in Christ who had to offer his life to attain the greatest need of mankind—our salvation. With that supreme act of compassion and generosity freely done, what other need do we have that would not be taken care of by God?

The truth is that God has provided us with everything. From our life with all its natural endowments to the air and water, to the abundant food from plants and animals and other resources, he has given them all for us to use and to live with the dignity of being children of God.

The problem is that we do not know how to manage them, how to care and help one another. There is so much indifference and self-indulgence, the germs that would develop into a worldwide pandemic of social injustice and inequality.

In those two parables that compared the kingdom of God to some seeds, we are made to understand that we just have to do a little to correspond to what God is giving us, and things would just work out. That detail of the parables tells us that with a little help from us, the full wonder of God’s grace would be revealed to us.

In other words, we have to be reminded that as long as we do our part, no matter how meager it is, God will astound us with his own tremendous power. The prodigy of God’s powerful compassion can take place.

We simply have to do our part of helping one another, starting with the little things until we would be challenged to tackle bigger issues that would require extraordinary effort and sacrifice. But then again, whatever investment of effort, money and sacrifice we have to give, even if in our own estimation it is already quite sizable, is nothing compared to what God will give us in return.

Corresponding to God’s will in our own small way is the highest yielding investment we can make. Let us remember that God can never be outdone in generosity. Christ himself said: “Whoever has (referring to one’s faith and trust in God) will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.” (Mt 13,12)

Let’s not forget that when we are sparing in our self-giving to God and to others, God will take away even the little that we have. The law that should rule our life is that of love, of total self-giving no matter what it would cost, though most times, the cost is really little only.

The pessimist finds difficulty in every situation.
The optimist finds an opportunity in every difficulty .

Social media had been a vital partner for most of us. It put forward our message, aspirations and feelings so to speak. Similarly, social media had been very quick to judge on people’s intentions, reactions and even it goes beyond by making interpretations that are clearly gathered from a wide latitude of data either positive or negative highlighted to a spin and packaged to forward a censure or an appreciation, depending on the slant the web focused on, it can be a negative thing or a positive one.

The pessimist finds difficulty in every situation. The optimist finds an opportunity in every difficulty. These quote is an overly used line attributed to Winston Churchill and many more. I tell you the web or the net can be either of the two.

Today, while reading a reply of a congratulatory comment I made when our School Organ won 2nd Runner Up in the Kultura Sinirangan Depratment of Tourism Video Infomercial Contest, I was able to come across this.

Thank you very much, sir Clemelle! Salamat san imo unwavering support sir, encouragements, and for always showing us the bright side in everything, more than enough to keep us fighting They have won Php50,000 price money from a measly Php. 5,000 budget.

The bright side in everything made my day ,it was a thing that was spawned from the simple encouraging we do and the rather small amount of money we contribute to a cause that is both institutional and community focused effort.

We sometimes forgot the power of positivism in the efforts that we do.

There is one phenomena that I want to share its called the Positivity Effect. This psychological phenomenon suggests that positive emotions enhance self-perception, self-esteem, and performance. It creates a virtuous circle where positivity reinforces positive thoughts and emotions. Psychologist call this as the Cognitive Flexibility: Positive emotions enhance cognitive flexibility, allowing us to adapt to changing circumstances. This flexibility aids problem-solving and creativity.

Thus, based on Real Science Positivity clearly helps in enhancing performance and thus, creating good results. This is proven every single day, every time!

What is Brand Identity?

Brand identity refers to the unique and distinct characteristics that define a brand and differentiate it from competitors. It encompasses the visual elements, messaging, values, personality, and overall perception associated with a brand. Brand identity is the way a brand portrays itself to the world and how it is perceived by its target audience. It is the essence of what a brand stands for and how it wants to be recognized and remembered. A strong brand identity helps create recognition, trust, loyalty, and a positive emotional connection with customers.

Establishing a robust brand identity is a critical component of creating a prosperous business. It necessitates meticulous planning, consistent implementation, and a profound comprehension of your intended market. Let’s explore each step in more detail:

1. Define Your Brand Values and Personality: Start by clearly defining the values and principles that your brand stands for. Consider what makes your business unique and how you want to be perceived by your customers. This will form the foundation of your brand’s personality and help guide your decision-making process.

2. Understand Your Target Audience: Gain a comprehensive understanding of your target audience, including their demographics, preferences, and needs. Conduct market research, analyze customer data, and gather feedback to develop a deep understanding of their motivations. This knowledge will enable you to tailor your brand identity to resonate with your ideal customers.

3. Develop a Compelling Brand Story: Craft a compelling brand story that connects emotionally with your audience. Your brand story should communicate your purpose, values, and mission in a way that engages and inspires. Use storytelling techniques to create a narrative that evokes emotions and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.
4. Create a Memorable Brand Name and Logo: Choose a brand name that is memorable, relevant, and reflects your brand identity. Design a visually appealing and distinctive logo that captures the essence of your brand. These elements will act as the face of your brand and create instant recognition and association for your audience.

5. Consistent Visual Identity: Develop a consistent visual identity across all brand touchpoints. Choose a color palette, typography, and design elements that align with your brand personality and resonate with your target audience. Apply these visual elements consistently across your website, packaging, marketing materials, and social media channels to create a cohesive brand experience.

6. Engage with Authentic Brand Voice: Establish a consistent brand voice that reflects your brand’s personality and values. Determine the tone and style of communication that aligns with your brand identity. Whether it’s through social media posts, website content, or customer communications, maintain an authentic and relatable voice that establishes a genuine connection with your audience.

7. Deliver Consistent Brand Experience: Ensure that every interaction with your brand reflects your desired brand identity. From customer service to product quality, strive for consistency in delivering a positive brand experience. Align all aspects of your business operations to uphold your brand values and promise, creating a cohesive and memorable brand experience for your customers.

8. Build Brand Advocacy: Encourage customer loyalty and advocacy by providing exceptional experiences. Foster positive relationships with your customers and engage them through meaningful interactions. Encourage user-generated content, testimonials, and reviews to amplify your brand’s reach and reputation. Happy customers who become brand advocates can significantly contribute to building a strong and trusted brand identity.

9. Evolve and Adapt: As your business grows and market dynamics change, be open to evolving your brand identity. Continuously monitor industry trends, customer feedback, and market insights to stay relevant. Adapt your brand strategy and refine your brand identity to maintain a strong connection with your audience and ensure your brand remains current and resonant.

Building a brand identity is an ongoing process because the market is dynamic, brand perceptions evolve, competition is constantly changing, consistency is crucial, and consumer expectations continue to evolve. By consistently evaluating, adapting, and refining your brand identity, you can maintain relevance, build customer loyalty, and ultimately thrive in a dynamic marketplace.
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If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the column, feel free to send an email to jca.bblueprint@gmail.com. Looking forward to connecting with you!
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If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the column, feel free to send an email to jca.bblueprint@gmail.com. Looking forward to connecting with you!